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The Los Angeles Rams have found themselves with limited cap space in the midst of the 2023 NFL free-agency period, even after trading their star cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Miami Dolphins.
Consequently, the team has been relatively quiet in comparison to other franchises during this year's free agency frenzy. However, on Tuesday, the Rams managed to restructure offensive tackle Joe Noteboom's contract, which resulted in the creation of $9 million in cap space. This has enabled the team to make some moves as it works to assemble its roster for the upcoming season.
In this article, we will provide a detailed analysis of each 2023 NFL free-agent signing by the Rams, discussing how these new additions will impact their performance in the upcoming season.
Rams Signings so Far
Coleman Shelton, Offensive Lineman
On Wednesday, the Rams re-signed offensive lineman Coleman Shelton to a two-year contract. Shelton's performance during the 2022 season was impressive enough for him to opt out of the final season of the two-year deal he had signed the previous year. As a result, the Rams rewarded him with a new contract.
Despite having to endure a slew of injuries affecting the offensive line last season, Shelton started 13 games for Los Angeles, only missing four games due to a high ankle sprain. The versatile offensive lineman, who filled in at right guard, center and left guard, was a welcome addition to the team as it navigated the challenges brought on by injuries.
There is minimal risk involved in re-signing a reliable lineman like Shelton, as the Rams demonstrated on Wednesday. Retaining Shelton was a wise decision, considering the number of uncertainties surrounding the offensive line, particularly in light of the numerous injuries sustained last season.
These injuries not only revealed the lack of depth in the offensive line but also put into perspective how difficult it would be for most teams to succeed under such circumstances.
According to Football Outsiders, the Rams experienced a total of 71.0 adjusted games lost on the offensive line, which is significantly higher than the previous record of 57.1 AGL set by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2020.
Rams coach Sean McVay acknowledged the need for improvements on the offensive line, and re-signing Shelton is the first step towards fortifying this crucial unit.
Notable Rams losses
The team's secondary has been hit hard, with the trade of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Miami Dolphins and the departure of versatile safety Nick Scott and talented safety Taylor Rapp in free agency. These changes will require the Rams to fill the gaps left by these key players, as their skills and contributions will be sorely missed.
Additionally, the Rams lost reliable kicker Matt Gay, veteran linebacker and defensive leader Bobby Wagner, productive edge rusher Leonard Floyd and defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson, which will necessitate finding replacements for their accuracy, leadership, pass-rushing ability and run-stuffing prowess, respectively.
Baker Mayfield's short time with the Rams came to an end as he moved to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in search of competing for a starting role.
